Kingsport Farmers Market accepting applications for 2019 season

KINGSPORT — The Kingsport Farmers Market is now accepting online and paper applications for its 2019 season.

Hannah Purdy, community services specialist with the city, said the market is looking at potentially opening for a few Saturdays in April, but the official opening for this season will take place on May 4.

The Kingsport Farmers Market is located downtown near Food City at the corner of Clinchfield and Center. Each spring, between 40 and 50 vendors are on hand for the opening, bringing in a nice selection of vegetables including lettuce, radishes, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, beets and turnips.

FOLLOW THE RULES

Every potential vendor must apply to sell at the market each season. The application is available online at kingsportfarmersmarket.org. Click on the “Get Involved” tab and select “Become a Vendor.”

Paper applications can be requested by calling (423) 392-8414.

Before applying, take time to review the Vendor Handbook on the Kingsport Farmers Market website under the “About Us” tab. This handbook lists the market’s policies regarding what types of vendors will be accepted.

Vendor acceptance, placement and dates granted are at the discretion of the Kingsport Farmers Market staff. All accepted vendors will be notified on or before April 1.

NEW MANAGEMENT

Though the market has been in operation for more than 40 years, last year marked the first season that the city took over the administration of its seasonal operation. A number of successful programs and festivals made it one of the most memorable years yet, and Tennessee Magazine once again named the Kingsport Farmers Market the Best Farmers Market in East Tennessee.

Kingsport Farmers Market officials hope all its new and returning vendors will help to make the 2019 season even more successful.